“Innovate Today, Nourish Tomorrow”: Egbeda LG Champions Food Security at 2026 World Food Day Celebration

Egbeda Local Government has participated in the 2026 World Food Day celebration held at Western Hall, House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Ibadan, Oyo State. The event brought together farmers, agricultural stakeholders, government representatives and members of the public to celebrate the importance of agriculture and promote food security.

The celebration, organised by the Oyo State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, featured the exhibition of locally produced agricultural commodities, product displays and other activities aimed at showcasing the contributions of farmers to food production and economic development. The programme also included a community outreach rally, farmers’ exhibitions and other engagements designed to promote agricultural innovation and sustainable food systems.

Held under the global theme, “Innovate Today, Nourish Tomorrow,” the celebration highlighted the importance of innovation, research and sustainable agricultural practices in strengthening food systems and ensuring access to safe, nutritious and sufficient food for all.

The Oyo State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye, toured the exhibition stands of participating local governments and commended farmers and agricultural stakeholders for their participation and contributions to the success of this year’s celebration.

Speaking on behalf of the Executive Chairman of Egbeda Local Government, Hon. Sanda Sikiru Oyedele, the Supervisor for Agriculture, Hon. Job Taiyewo, described World Food Day as a globally recognised occasion for raising awareness about food security and acknowledging the invaluable contributions of farmers to food production, livelihoods and human survival.

He emphasised that farmers remain central to ensuring food availability and sustaining the agricultural sector, noting that their efforts are indispensable to societal development, economic growth and the overall well-being of the people. He further stressed the need to embrace innovation and sustainable farming practices to address emerging agricultural challenges and strengthen food security.

Hon. Oyedele expressed appreciation to the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources of Egbeda Local Government, under the leadership of Mr. Gregory Omolewo, alongside farmers from the council area and other agricultural stakeholders, for showcasing locally produced agricultural commodities at the event. He commended their commitment to promoting agriculture, supporting local production and creating greater awareness of the sector’s importance to food security and economic development.

The Chairman further noted that the 2026 World Food Day celebration serves as a reminder of the need for continued investment in agricultural innovation, research and sustainable farming methods to build resilient food systems capable of meeting the needs of present and future generations.

Among those in attendance were Mr. Gregory Omolewo, Director of Agriculture and Natural Resources and his Deputy, Mrs. Salawu, Hon. Job Taiyewo, Supervisor for Agriculture; Hon. Ayanwale, Super for Environment, and other Heads of Departments of Egbeda Local Government.